Columbia’s Greenway Expansion Plans Enhance Outdoor Connectivity

News Summary

Columbia is set to improve outdoor recreation and connectivity with seven major greenway expansion projects throughout the city. Funded by a penny tax, enhancements aim to create scenic pathways linking neighborhoods, parks, and business districts, promoting outdoor enjoyment and community wellness. With several projects like the Vista Greenway and Gills Creek Greenway in progress, Columbia’s greenway efforts promise a connected, nature-filled experience for residents and visitors alike.

Columbia’s Greenway Expansion Plans: Exciting Outdoor Connectivity Projects Ahead!

Columbia is buzzing with greenway expansion plans that are bound to improve outdoor recreation and connectivity among the city’s beautiful rivers. With seven major projects underway throughout the Midlands, residents and visitors can look forward to a more connected, nature-filled experience!

Connecting Communities Through Nature

The aim of these projects goes beyond just creating pathways; they’re designed to significantly enhance connectivity among Columbia’s bustling business districts and are sure to attract outdoor enthusiasts from all walks of life. As nature lovers and families seek ways to enjoy the outdoors, Columbia’s greenway initiatives will provide them with stunning routes to explore.

Funding the Future with Penny Tax

How are these ambitious projects being funded? A big chunk comes from the Richland County penny transportation tax, which residents voted to continue back in November 2024. So, it seems this penny is not just for your kids’ candy – it’s being put to good use in enhancing the outdoor beauty of the city!

The Vista Greenway: A Comprehensive Expansion

A standout project is the Vista Greenway, which is currently undergoing an impressive $3 million expansion. This phase will stretch 1.2 miles from Lady Street to North Main Street, running through the scenic Elmwood Park and Earlewood neighborhoods. But wait, there’s more! Phase four is set to add another 1.6 miles from North Main all the way to Page Ellington Park, coming in at an estimated $4 million. The full Vista Greenway project is on track for completion by 2028 and aims for a total length of 3.75 miles.

Gills Creek Greenway: Design Phase in Action

Meanwhile, the plans for the Gills Creek Greenway are shaping up nicely, with about $6 million allocated for a one-mile stretch that will connect Fort Jackson Boulevard to Rosewood. This vital project is currently in the design phase, and it is exciting to see Columbia carving out paths along its beautiful waterways.

Pedestrian Paths and the Rocky Branch Greenway

There’s also a pedestrian path in the works that will connect the magnificent Congaree Riverfront to Olympia Park. Estimated to cost around $3 million, construction is tentatively set to kick off in the fall of 2025, promising a picturesque stroll through nature. Adding to the mix is the Rocky Branch Greenway, expected to stretch approximately one mile along the Broad River, which is nearing completion in the design phase and will come in at an estimated $3 million.

Future Construction for Crane Creek and Columbia Mall Greenways

Construction for the Crane Creek Greenway is expected to begin within the next year, also funded by the penny tax. Right near the Columbia Place Mall in the Arcadia Lakes neighborhood, the Columbia Mall Greenway is in the design phase, stressing the potential for outdoor recreation in such a densely populated area!

Three Rivers Greenway Network: A Vision for Connectivity

Looking ahead, the overarching Three Rivers Greenway plan envisions a phenomenal network connecting greenways along the Saluda, Broad, and Congaree rivers, totaling an incredible 25 miles. One of the standout developments in this plan is the expansion of the Lower Saluda Greenway, a massive $22 million project that will stretch out 10 miles upstream toward Irmo, with construction set to start soon.

Pedestrian Trail and Bridge Projects

Additionally, there’s a fantastic $2.2 million pedestrian trail connecting Boyd Island to the west side of the Broad River. A $3.6 million bridge over the Broad River will further enhance access to the popular Saluda Riverwalk, making nature more accessible than ever!

Future Prospects and Community Impact

As Columbia continues to grow, local leaders are emphasizing how these greenway projects are vital for the transformation of the community and improving the quality of life for residents. The next round of funding from the Richland County penny tax, expected to take effect in 2026, could bring amazing future extensions to several projects, ensuring that Columbia keeps moving forward in creating beautiful outdoor spaces.

With nature and connectivity being at the forefront of these initiatives, the future looks bright for outdoor lovers in Columbia!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Columbia Plans $7 Million Vista Greenway Expansion
Columbia, S.C. Receives $204 Million Federal Grant for Traffic Project
Columbia Residents Share Vision for Future Parks and Recreation at Community Meeting

Additional Resources

• Post and Courier: Greenways Project Update
• The State: Local News Update
• MassLive: Columbia Greenway Award
• KOMU: New Greenway Proposal
• Construction Equipment Guide: New Pedestrian Bridge
• Wikipedia: Greenway
• Google Search: Columbia greenway projects
• Google Scholar: Columbia greenways
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Greenway
• Google News: Columbia greenway news

Author: HERE Lexington